What do I need to know before enrolling to the University of Houston?

They say that choosing the right university is like finding the perfect pair of shoes – it has to fit just right. If you’re considering studying at the University of Houston, let us shed some light on the ins and outs of the university.
In this guide, we’ll dive into the must-know questions that will help you navigate the halls of UH like a seasoned pro. We’ll also discuss some tips and tricks whether you’re an aspiring freshman or a hopeful transferee.
Ready to learn more? Read on!
The University of Houston: A Brief Background

Image Source: University of Houston Website
The University of Houston has a strong academic legacy that dates back to its establishment in 1927 as Houston Junior College. Initially focused on teacher training, classes were held at the San Jacinto High School campus.
In 1934, it was renamed the University of Houston and just 5 years later, the university opened its first building on a permanent campus. In 1963, the university achieved state institution status.
Later, in 1977, it became part of the University of Houston System.

Image Source: University of Houston Website
Today, the university holds accreditation from the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) to issue, baccalaureate, masters, educational specialist, and doctorate degrees.
The University of Houston is ranked at 182 among 442 national universities in the United States. With over 300,000 alumni and more than 40,000 current enrollees, the university has become one of the respected institutions of education in the country.
University of Houston Campuses

Image Source: University of Houston Website
The UH System includes four main campuses that offer a diverse range of academic programs, with each campus being responsible for 1 or 2 operational sites elsewhere that offer specialized or broader range classes and courses.
University of Houston Main Campus

Image Source: University of Houston Website
UH is the largest university in Houston and the third largest in Texas. It holds its own among other national colleges with a wide range of academic programs at the undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral educational levels.
As the oldest university within the UH System, it serves as the main and primary educational institution and has been designated as a Tier One research university by the Carnegie Foundation.
What sets UH apart is its incredibly diverse student body, representing a multitude of ethnicities with no single majority race on campus. In fact, the university has a highly international character, welcoming students from over 125 nations.
Approximately 8,400 students call UH’s nine residential communities home, fostering a strong sense of community and camaraderie.
UH has over 500 student organizations and 17 intercollegiate sports teams offering a wide range of opportunities for involvement and personal growth.

Image Source: University of Houston Website
UH takes pride in its exceptional faculty, which includes Tony Award winners and esteemed members of the National Academies of Science and Engineering, as well as the National Academy of Inventors.
As a member of the Association of Research Libraries, UH excels in its extensive and high-quality collections and services, ensuring a rich academic environment for students and scholars alike.
The University of Houston is also home to Phi Beta Kappa chapter, the most prestigious honor society in the United States.
Address: 4800 Calhoun Rd, Houston, TX 77004, United States
Phone Number: +1 713-743-2255
University of Houston Sugar Land

Image Source: University of Houston Sugar Land Website
The University of Houston extends its educational reach to the vibrant city of Sugar Land, Texas, with its instructional site in the area.
This thriving campus serves as the campus for nearly 3,000 students, providing a wide range of programs and courses that lead to undergraduate and graduate degrees from the University of Houston.
Students at UH Sugar Land have the opportunity to pursue degrees from the following colleges:
- Nursing
- Technology
- Education
- Social Work
- Liberal Arts and Social Sciences
- C.T. Bauer College of Business.
The campus plays a vital role in serving students not only from the greater Houston area but also from the expansive Fort Bend County region including Sugar Land, Richmond, Rosenberg, Stafford, and Missouri City.
Address: 14000 University Blvd, Sugar Land, TX 77479, United States
Phone Number: +1 832-842-2900
University of Houston – Downtown

Image Source: University of Houston Downtown Website
The University of Houston-Downtown (UHD) is the second-largest university in Houston and is renowned for being the most ethnically diverse university in the state.
The university is credited for being a progressive institution that caters to minorities, all races, and even those involved in the military. With over 15,000 students and more than 62,000 alumni, UHD thrives as a prominent institution in the country’s fourth-largest city.
Situated in the heart of the central business district, UHD offers an advantage to students with internship opportunities at big and renowned companies.
The University of Houston – Downtown has four colleges that offer a range of bachelor’s and master’s degree programs:
- Marilyn Davies College of Business,
- College of Humanities & Social Sciences,
- College of Public Service
- College of Sciences & Technology

Image Source: University of Houston Downtown Website
The university has great faculty, small class sizes, and lots of research opportunities at the undergraduate level. It also has the lowest tuition rate in Houston and one of the lowest in Texas and the nation.
A wide range of class options available, including daytime, evening, and weekend courses. Students can choose between face-to-face, online, and hybrid classes, blending the best of both worlds.
With 45 disciplines offering baccalaureate degrees, UHD provides a comprehensive array of academic programs. Notable signature programs include the following:
- Accounting, Finance, Insurance and Risk Management
- Criminal Justice
- Psychology
- Social Work
- Safety Management
- Interdisciplinary Studies
- Fine arts
- Data science (The first in the state)
Address: 1 Main St, Houston, TX 77002, United States
Phone Number: +1 713-221-8000
UHD Northwest, Lone Star College

Image Source: University of Houston Lone Star College Website
UHD extends its reach beyond the main campus, offering classes at UHD Northwest located at Lone Star College – University Park.
UHD Northwest has a focus on undergraduate education with 17 undergraduate and one graduate degree program to choose from. The campus serves the Cypress, Tomball, Spring, Klein, Katy, Waller, and The Woodlands regions.
Address: 20515 TX-249 S, Houston, TX 77070, United States
Phone Number: +1 281-290-2600
University of Houston – Clear Lake

Image Source: University of Houston – Clear Lake Website
The University of Houston – Clear Lake campus is located in a serene 524-acre wildlife and nature preserve neighboring the NASA Johnson Space Center.
The university offers an array of over 90 degree programs across four colleges, with more than 75,000 alumni.
The university started off as an upper-level and graduate campus but has now evolved into a comprehensive four-year university eversince 2014 for students in the Houston-Galveston area and beyond.
Within the Gulf Coast region, which houses the international petrochemical industry, Texas Medical Center, and NASA Johnson Space Center, UH-Clear Lake has nurtured more than 75,000 alumni in business, industry, education, and healthcare.
The small class sizes and highly qualified faculty members ensure quality education within its 4 main colleges listed below:
- College of Business
- College of Education
- College of Human Sciences and Humanities
- College of Science and Engineering.

Image Source: University of Houston – Clear Lake Website
Beyond the classroom, UHCL’s vibrant community of approximately 9,100 students can engage in over 100 student organizations, secure internships, and explore enriching research ventures.
The UHCL inaugurated two new buildings in 2018—the Recreation and Wellness Center and the STEM and Classroom Building—enhancing the campus experience for students.
In fall 2019, UHCL proudly opened its on-campus residence hall, while UHCL at Pearland unveiled a new Health Sciences and Classroom Building in spring 2019.
Address: 2700 Bay Area Blvd, Houston, TX 77058, United States
Phone Number: +1 281-283-7600
University of Houston Pearland

Image Source: University of Houston Clear Lake
The University of Houston-Clear Lake’s operational site in Pearland has been a driving force in enhancing the educational landscape of the vibrant Pearland area since its establishment in 2010.
With a diverse array of degree programs, including business, behavioral science, education, and nursing, UH-Clear Lake at Pearland presents an excellent educational opportunity for individuals residing in the flourishing Pearland region.
Since 2017, UHCL at Pearland has played host to core classes from Alvin Community College, offering students a seamless pathway to transfer their credits to UHCL and a smooth transition and enhances accessibility to higher education.

Image Source: University of Houston Clear Lake
Students enrolled in UHCL’s Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership program have also been able to conveniently attend classes at UHCL at Pearland since 2018.
The university participates in active engagement with organizations like the Pearland Chamber of Commerce and the Northern Brazoria County Education Alliance showing its willingness to make positive impacts in the community.
Address: 1200 Pearland Pkwy, Pearland, TX 77581, United States
Phone Number: +1 281-212-1700
University of Houston – Texas Medical Center

Image Source: University of Texas System Website
Those who are interested in UHCL’s health care programs attend their classes at the Texas Medical Center.
Recognized as a global hub for healthcare research and delivery, the Texas Medical Center serves as the setting for UHCL to offer specialized degree programs tailored to the needs of working professionals in the healthcare industry.
With a focus on developing essential business skills, finance management, reimbursement systems, and operational know-how, UHCL’s health care programs equip students with the expertise for administrative roles within healthcare institutions.
Address: 6410 Fannin St, Houston, TX 77030, United States
Phone Number: +1 713-743-7047
University of Houston – Victoria

Image Source: University of Houston Victoria Website
Established in 1973 as the University of Houston Victoria Center, the University of Houston-Victoria (UHV) underwent a significant transformation a decade later.
This was when the Texas Legislature passed a bill granting it permanent status as a degree-granting university. This allowed UHV to offer a comprehensive range of junior, senior, and graduate-level courses.
In 2010, following the enactment of legislation, UHV welcomed its first freshmen and sophomores.
Today, UHV stands as a vibrant destination university in the Coastal Bend area with more than 4,000 students, approximately 1,392 degrees distributed annually, and an alumni base exceeding 22,000.

Image Source: University of Houston Victoria Website
The university offers a diverse range of undergraduate and graduate programs which are available both online and in-person through its four distinguished colleges:
- College of Business
- College of Education & Health Professions
- College of Liberal Arts & Social Sciences
- College of Natural & Applied Sciences.
UHV also facilitates seamless transitions for transfer students through dual admissions programs with institutions like Victoria College, Wharton County Junior College, Coastal Bend College, Houston Community College, Lone Star College, and others.
In 2021, UHV demonstrated its commitment to research and innovation, with research and sponsored program expenditures exceeding $416,867.
Address: 3007 N Ben Wilson St, Victoria, TX 77901, United States
Phone Number: +1 361-570-4848
University of Houston – Katy

Image Source: University of Houston Katy Website
Located in Katy, Texas, this instructional site of the University of Houston caters to students who want to pursue degrees from the University of Houston System’s Colleges of Nursing and the Cullen College of Engineering.
One of the notable programs offered at UH at Katy is the HCC/UH Engineering Academy, a collaborative initiative between the University of Houston and Houston Community College.
University of Houston at Katy is accessible to students from the Houston area, encompassing communities like Katy, Fulshear, Brookshire, Cinco Ranch, and Pecan Grove.
University of Houston – Victoria also shares the campus at Katy where they offer specialist and masters degree programs, including education, business, publishing, forensic psychology, creative writing, and computer information systems.
Address: 22400 Grand Cir Blvd Suite 206, Katy, TX 77449, United States
Phone Number: +1 281-396-3700
Courses the University of Houston in Known for

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The University of Houston has 114 major and 139 minor programs across all of their colleges, but listed below are the more popular courses in the university system, according to a study done by US News.
- Business, Management, Marketing, and Related Support Services
- Psychology
- Engineering
- Computer and Information Sciences and Support Services
- Biological and Biomedical Sciences
- Social Sciences; Parks, Recreation, Leisure, Fitness, and Kinesiology
- Communication, Journalism, and Related Programs
- Health Professions and Related Programs
- Family and Consumer Sciences/Human Sciences.
Difficulty in Getting into the University of Houston

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Admission to the University of Houston is highly competitive, setting the bar high within the UH System. Since fall 2011, automatic admission to the University has been granted only to freshmen who graduate in the top 10 percent of their high school class.
Freshman applicants from U.S. high schools or those with a GED certificate must meet any two of these three requirements for regular admission.
- Ranking in the top 50 percent of their graduating senior class
- Maintaining an overall high school grade-point average of at least 2.0 on a 4.0 scale
- Achieving a minimum score of 18 on the Enhanced American College Test or a minimum of 940 on the New Scholastic Assessment Test.
The University of Houston also offers an option for those who graduated in the top 60 percent of their high school class and maintained a minimum GPA of 2.5, to take an admissions test.
As for undergraduate transfer students, if they have 12 or more semester credit hours of college courses, admission is possible with a minimum GPA of 2.0 across their all coursework from an accredited institution and necessary documentation.
Enrolling in the University of Houston
Process for New Students and Transferees

Image Source: University of Houston Website
The process of admission and enrolling into the University of Houston for both new students and transferees are the same and very streamlined. Here are the steps indicated by the university:
- Set up your myUH Account. After receiving your ID number, you will gain access to your personalized myUH account. This platform will be your central hub for tracking your enrollment progress, checking for any missing items, and staying updated on important due dates throughout the enrollment process.
- Attend the New Student Orientation: As a new freshman student, attending this orientation program will introduce you to UH traditions and valuable resources. You get to connect with fellow incoming students, become acquainted with campus facilities, and schedule a meeting with your academic advisor.
- Submit Final Transcripts: Send your final transcripts, including any AP, college, or dual credit documentation. You can request your school administrator to send these electronically through an EDI system like TREx for Texas institutions.
The PDF transcript can also be sent to the Office of Undergraduate Admissions at this address: University of Houston Office of Undergraduate Admissions 4434 University Drive Houston, TX 77204

Image Source: University of Houston Website
- Additional Requirements:
- Cougar Card: Your Cougar Card will serve as your primary form of identification on campus. You can use it to print documents, purchase food, and get into facilities and sports events.
- Housing: Freshman are encouraged, but not required live in the on-campus dorms. Visit the Student Housing and Residential Life website for important dates and details.
- Admitted Student Visits: These visits are open to both new students and transferees, where you can further explore the campus and engage with the UH community.
- UH Go App: Download the UH Go App, your comprehensive guide to navigating the University of Houston and your provider of class resources and campus information.
- Meal Plan: Students can consider purchasing a meal plan that can be tailored to suit your preferences and provide convenient access to various dining options on campus.
- Parking: The university issues parking permits for those who want to secure parking spots through the parking portal.
Tuition and Fees

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The cost of tuition and fees at the University of Houston can range from $1800 to $15,000 per term based on factors like which term you’re enrolling for, residency status, and the specific courses you choose to enroll in.
There is more than one primary fee associated with your college tuition. In addition to the basic tuition and the University fees, the university has college and course fees.
Here is the breakdown of basic tuition for the University of Houston:
Basic Tuition | ||||
Residents | Non-Residents | |||
Fall and Spring | Summer | Fall and Spring | Summer | |
Education, Liberal Arts, Hobby School | $5,617.32 | $1,872.44 | $13,237.32 | $4,412.44 |
Arts, Social Science, Exploratory Studies, Hotel/Restaurant Management, Natural Sciences & Mathematics | $5,617.32 | $1,995.23 | $13,605.70 | $4,535.23 |
Architecture, Business, Engineering, Technology | $6,528.78 | $2,176.26 | $14,148.78 | $4,716.26 |
Nursing | $6,528.78 | $2,176.26 | $15,146.38 | $5,048.79 |
Data Source: University of Houston Website
The University of Houston has a tuition calculator here that can help estimate the total fee depending on the several factors.
Class Data

Image Source: University of Houston Website
Class sizes in the University of Houston range from 17 to 25 students per class on average across all campuses, according to the official website. The data above shows the sizes across the past 5 years and across the different classes.
The University of Houston prides itself on the quality of education they provide and work to lessen the number of students per class. In 2018, the average size was 23.6 students in every class. This number has gone down to 22.5 in 2022.
Aside from class size, the University of Houston system also takes note of the student to faculty ratio as part of their bid to ensure a maximized learning environment. They have maintained the ratio at 18-20 students to 1 faculty member over the past 5 years.
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